A: Developing infrastructure, primarily in areas affected by the war, is of utmost importance. The societal and psychological damage suffered by those affected by the conflict must also be addressed. Steps should be taken to ensure that racial conflict does not resurface in Sri Lanka again.

Our international image is not encouraging – we must project Sri Lanka positively to the international community. Inflation, unemployment and our national debt must be reduced, and corruption
should not be tolerated.

Q: What opportunities do you see for young Sri Lankans like yourself?

A: The youth in Sri Lanka have many opportunities for higher education today, not only by completing local examinations and gaining entrance into local universities, but also by sitting for London A-Levels, studying for globally recognised professional examinations
and even travelling to study
in universities abroad.

Description: http://lmd.lk/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Youth2.jpgIf a young person doesn’t want to pursue higher education, employment is available in the private and public sectors on completion of A-Levels. Many private companies also send some of their younger employees for higher education courses abroad as part of their training, which opens up innumerable opportunities.

Q: In your view, what are the notable changes in the spheres of education and environmental sustainability?

A: The use of technology in education is limited, partly due to a lack of resources. As a result, Sri Lanka lags behind many countries. We also see more private education institutes and there are more options for students to sit for international exams.

Although Sri Lanka’s pollution per capita is much lower than in most countries, the rapidly increasing number of vehicles has a negative impact. And our economy’s reliance on the manufacturing industry may be environmentally unsustainable, unless we ensure that production processes are environmentally friendly.

Q: How can Sri Lanka retain the talent it has?

A: The main reason young
Sri Lankans venture abroad
is because there are more opportunities overseas. To retain its talent, Sri Lanka needs to provide challenging and interesting higher education options as many young, talented individuals want to achieve their best. Job and career opportunities must be available, so that they can fulfil their lofty ambitions. There’s also a need for a
higher level of job security.

Q: Where do you see Sri Lanka in a decade or so?

A: Currently, Sri Lanka is rebuilding itself after the destruction of war, which has led to rising debt, inflation and unemployment. Many development projects are being implemented with foreign aid and loans.

Utilising aid has virtually no repercussions, as there are no repayments. However, unless foreign loan investments deliver returns, Sri Lanka will be unable to repay its large debt obligations. If investments generate revenue, there will be job creation and sufficient returns for loan repayment.

Q: What are your views on global food shortages and nuclear weapons?

A: A pervasive challenge
for the world, the rapidly increasing global population has resulted in food shortages especially in the developing countries of Africa, Asia and South America.

However, food shortages
in developing nations is a consequence of unwarranted waste in developed countries.

The two world wars of the last century have taken their toll on the world. And the emphasis on nuclear weapons is worrying, as it not only affects those living at the time, but also future generations.

A: Both are caused primarily by pollution and the emission of greenhouse gases, for which developed countries are mainly responsible. The world has become selfish, resulting in profit-making being the end goal irrespective of environmental destruction.

Policymakers should ensure that those responsible for causing global warming are severely punished. Nevertheless, it is everyone’s responsibility to preserve the environment.

Q: Is the growing use of social media a good thing?

A: Social media allows communication and interaction between people, and it removes geographical boundaries. It is also a great unifier of diverse cultures, countries and thoughts. This provides a platform to discuss issues and ideas, and share experiences.

However, social media can also be negative. It can be used to misinform and impersonate; but if it is used carefully, potential problems can be prevented.
One Comment

Dr. Rubert Vanderkoon 6 February 2014 at 7:06 am

A quality interview and what a great champion he is! Moreover, his assessment of our economy’s over-reliance on the environmentally under-prepared manufacturing sector, implying the need for ensuring environmentally friendliness in issuing factory permits must be an eye-opener for mature policymakers.